Your expertly curated itinerary for visiting Algonquin Park in the fall, including: the best time to see the leaves change, the best things to do in the fall and secret places to see the fall colours!
If this is your first time visiting Algonquin Park in the fall, or you’re trying to time a trip just right to see the leaves change, then this expertly curated itinerary, designed by a local, is your guide to the best places to see the fall colours.
You could plan your own Algonquin Park Fall Getaway…
Or let us do it for you!
We often get asked questions about help with itineraries during the planning stages of a trip to Four Corners Algonquin. So much so that we actually have templated material ready to revise and deliver quickly based on your feedback. Some folks are real planners!
For others, planning is less important… they’re more “we’ll figure it out when we get there” kind of people. We help point these folks in the right direction in person when they arrive, and when they ask questions throughout their stay.
We’ve posted some of the more common options we share with both types of travellers to our blogs and our website, but we’re happy to customize something just for your family or group too. We want to make sure that your experience with us fits exactly the dream you’re hoping for.
Top Things to Do and See in During Fall In Algonquin Park
Fall is my favourite time in Algonquin. The bugs are gone. It’s cooler but not yet cold, usually. And the colours? Magnificent!
Usually a trip from mid-September to early October is the best time to catch the changing of the colours. (We break down early fall colour change, mid fall colour change and late fall colour change in this blog). Did you know you can view the fall colour report here to track the progress of the colour change?
The Algonquin Visitor Centre also has a live webcam that lets you see the view from the back deck! And that's not all. Why don't I share a few more tips on the best places to take a rest during your trip.
A few insider tips on the best places to visit during your trip to Algonquin Park...
Lake of Two Rivers offers spectacular views of the colours, plus the reflection of those colours on the water. You can stop at the picnic area on highway 60, or at the campground beach. If you’re lucky enough to pass by in the early morning, you may see the hazy and mottled fog that settles above the water with the colours in behind. It really is dreamy on some days!
If you’re at Four Corners Algonquin or in Whitney, try a walk along the Madawaska River or stop at Galeairy Lake Park by the dam downtown. The water, the colours and the peace and quiet together fill the soul.
There are lots of well-known fall hikes in Algonquin Park. If you’re looking for something a little different, why not try out the Spectacle Lake/Bear/Burnetts Mountain trail system in South Algonquin
Whether you are coming or going, or whether all you have time for is a drive through, try the Four Corners Algonquin driving tour for stories and a colour show without ever leaving your car. Tell me who or what can beat that? Download the FREE Four Corners Algonquin app from the app store and enjoy!
Visiting Algonquin in the Fall: A Two Night Stay
Day 1: History and Adventure in Algonquin
First... getting here | Experience the Scenery and Stories So you’re all packed up and ready to go! We hope your travels are safe and scenic - and we have a treat for part of your drive! Get the FREE Four Corners Algonquin App and download the Highway 60 Driving Tour on your way to Four Corners. Whether you’re a history buff, want to subject your kids to some educational learning, or are looking for a fun fact to impress your friends with, the app is full of stories including: articles from the early 1900s, letters Tom Thomson wrote to his benefactor, and a moving musical interpretation of E. Pauline Johnson’s poem “The Song My Paddle Sings,” along with an indigenous prayer led by Rod Nettigog of Henvey Inlet First Nations. Talk about a great start to a glamping staycation in the true north - a little bit of Canadian history! |
Next... getting settled | When you reach Four Corners Algonquin, head to the check-in booth and receive your orientation package before you go settle into your tent. We’ll have a copy of the Algonquin Park newsletter and the One Fine Day in South Algonquin zine ready for you to browse. Who’s hungry?? Enjoy some pre-packed lunch at your site, or visit KM 31 in the Park and order something fresh at the Lake of Two Rivers Cafe and Grill. |
When you're ready... head into the park | Bellies are full, you’ve had a chance to stretch your legs and admire the beautiful views from your site and breathe in that sweet fresh air. Now you’re ready to explore! Double-check you’ve got your FREE Algonquin Provincial Park day pass (remember to reserve in advance at the Quartermaster Rental Program and then book your entry at the park with the pass number). Travel to KM 43 in the Algonquin Park and head to the Algonquin Park Visitor’s Centre. Take in the theatre, museum, bookstore, and art gallery! Algonquin Park displays different art exhibitions throughout the year - check the itinerary on the Visitor’s Centre site! If you have time for an easy, accessible hike, try the FireTower trail. Stand on the deck to view the panorama of Algonquin Park in full fall colour bloom, and check out the Algonquin Park Live Webcam in advance to see the colours change! Pro tip: Bring dry goods and snacks with you. Perishables and fresh goods can be bought at our local Freshmart! Alternately, enquire about whether the cafe at the visitor’s centre is open for lunch and light meals. |
Then... hit the trails | When you’ve wrapped up your time at Algonquin Park, head over to the Logging Museum & Trail along KM 54.5. The trail is a lovely and leisurely 1.5 kms and you’ll be able to stop by cabins to see how the loggers lived and worked. Check out the steam-powered “alligator” and locomotive! Note: this is a favourite trail for children and it is rated ‘easy’ so it’s great for people with mobility challenges! |
At the end of a long day... | Wrap up your hike, stop by for some take out in the town of Whitney (just 2km from our site) or pick up some groceries to cook your own campfire cuisine from our local Freshmart. Enjoy dinner over a crackling fire and settle into your first night in nature. If you need anything from the Quartermaster Shack to make yourselves more comfortable, by all means - stop by or give us a call and we’ll help you out! Pro Tip: If you’re camping in the fall, we highly recommend getting a box of Hot Hands Hand Warmers like the ones linked here. You can likely find deals and a good price on a box elsewhere, but the extra boost of warmth will go a long way during a cool night or chilly morning. |
Day 2: Outdoor Adventure in Algonquin
Early Birds | Wake with the Sun. After a good night’s sleep in our comfy beds, whip yourself up some breakfast over the campfire or barbecue. If your vacation doesn’t include cooking, pop over to the Algonquin Lunch Bar for breakfast instead. They open at 8:00am. |
Morning Fun | Ever thought about a fall canoe trip? Grab a coffee from Opeongo Outfitters, rent a canoe and paddle around Galeairy Lake. Visit the Trestle at Mud Bay, or paddle around to the beach and Access point #13 at the docks in Whitney. Safety first: Remember to wear your lifejackets! Worked up an appetite?? Enjoy some packed lunch at the Fish & Chip Truck at Opeongo Outfitters when you return your canoe. |
When you’re ready…head into the park | You’ve refueled your tank, stretched your arms and admired the beautiful views on the lake. Now you’re ready to explore! Double-check you’ve got your FREE Algonquin Provincial Park day pass (remember to reserve in advance at the Quartermaster Rental Program and then book your entry at the park with the pass number). Travel to KM13.8 in Algonquin Park and head to the Hardwood Lookout trail for a 1.8 km tour of fall colours at its finest. Labeled Moderate, you’ll learn all about the ecology of an Algonquin hardwood forest and a scenic view over Smoke Lake. Pro tip: Bring dry goods, snacks and water with you. Perishables and fresh goods can be bought at our local Freshmart! Alternately, enquire about whether the cafe at the visitor’s centre is open for lunch and light meals. |
Settle in for some dinner and campfire tales… | Wrap up your hike, stop by for some take out in the town of Whitney (just 2km from our site) or pick up some groceries to cook your own campfire cuisine from our local Freshmart. Enjoy dinner over a crackling fire and settle into your final night in nature. Enjoy some hot cocoa and smores. If you need anything from the Quartermaster Shack to make yourselves more comfortable, by all means - stop by or give us a call and we’ll help you out! |
Common Questions
When can you see fall colours in Ontario?
The time between September and October is the best time to see fall colours in Ontario. The Ontario countryside, provincial parks, and conservation areas are popular destinations for enjoying fall foliage. Algonquin Provincial Park is a top spot in Ontario to see fall colours.
Where is the best place to see fall colours in Ontario?
The best places to see fall colours in Ontario include Algonquin Provincial Park, Dundas Peak in Hamilton and Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park. If you are visiting Algonquin Park, there are plenty of places to take in gorgeous views of the fall colours along the Algonquin Highway 60 corridor.
Make a stop at Lake of Two Rivers as well as Galeairy Lake Park to see the best fall colours in Ontario. Also, for best fall colour viewing in Algonquin Park, we recommend hiking the Lookout Trail.
How long do the fall colours last in Ontario?
The fall colours in Ontario last strongly until mid-October and the leaf fall is significant towards the end of October. However, it varies according to different geographical locations and weather conditions. In southern Ontario, where the climate is milder, fall colour peaking happens in early to mid-October while in northern regions of Ontario, the peak colours may occur a bit later, often in mid-October.
Don't wait - book a trip today!
Don't forget to book your trip before spaces fill up! Our summer and fall seasons are the most popular times for camping -- you can book your trip here.